HERO's Perfect Summer

Read here!
Set in a happier, lively alternate universe where the tragedy of Mari's death never happened, "HERO’s Perfect Summer" is a self-proclaimed heartfelt and nostalgic story that follows Hero, Mari, Sunny, Basil, Kel, and Aubrey, during the last summer they will all have together before Hero and Mari go to college. This AU focuses on friendship, and the bittersweet-ness of growing up.

Main character, most chapters are written from his perspective. Balances preparing for culinary school with making the most of his last carefree summer. Learns to appreciate the present and not let the pressure of his future dominate his life. Has unresolved feelings for Mari that begin to surface again.Scroll down for image.

Not dead. (Yay!) Tries (and succeeds) to reconnect with Sunny, who’s slowly opening up emotionally. Still has a quiet, guiding presence, but is more mischievous and goofy in this AU. Also moving away to college, but is less stressed than Hero, so she decides to sit back and help make the summer about him.Scroll down for image.

Genuinely enjoys playing the violin, and music overall. Opens up over time. learning to express himself through music. Faces fears of abandonment and not being “enough.” Starts writing his own compositions, with Mari’s help. Autistic character, that I will do research to represent properly. Almost completely non-verbal.Scroll down for image.

Finds peace in nature photography. Still sensitive, but gaining confidence by helping plan a local summer art show with Aubrey. Forms a strong bond with Sunny again, but this time rooted in support rather than co-dependence.Scroll down for image.

Still as energetic and silly as ever, but slowly reveals worries about being the "least serious" one. Plays on a summer basketball team. Struggles choosing between spending time with past friends or new ones. Learns the value of being emotionally open.Scroll down for image.

Struggles with identity and feeling like she’s being left behind. Explores visual art, starting a mural downtown. (Sorry for not having much for her, she will absolutely get more! Aubrey is an extremely important character as are the rest)Scroll down for image.